Giant Schnauzer – Fun Facts and Crate Size
October 23, 2018Giant Schnauzer
Quick Facts:
- AKC recognized in 1930
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
- Size: Large
- Energy: High
- Recommended Crate Size: 48" dog crate*
Return to the main Dog Crate Sizes Breed Chart.
Table of contents
Introduction
The first appearance of the Giant Schnauzer was around the 17th century in Swabia and Wurttemberg, Germany.
The history of its original breeding is unclear. There is speculation that it is bred from several breeds like the German Sherperd, Great Dane, Doberman, and Rottweiler.
This dog is the largest one in comparison to the other two types, the Standard and Miniature Schnauzer. They may look alike but are still considered to be 3 different recognized breeds in the AKC.
The Giant Schnauzers are bred as working dogs. They help people on farms by driving livestock as well as guarding the property and its owners. In the city, people mostly have them as watchdogs. Many people began to recognize them when they served as military dogs during WWI and WWII.
Breed
The American Kennel Club formally recognized the Giant Schnauzer in 1930.
These high energy dogs are known as alert and loyal. They are extremely smart too, which makes them trainable.
They love and enjoy doing many things since they are bred to be working dogs. If you have no farm for them to work on, you can get them to do casual things. For example, let them carry things like newspapers or ask them to find objects.
Due to their high intelligence, they have gained notoriety in doing multiples tasks such as being rescue dogs, police dogs, and guide dogs. But, primarily, they are best suited as guard dogs. With their natural territorial and protective instincts, they will protect their family and home.
Appearance
Although they are called giant, their size is not a comparison toward other large dogs like the Rottweiler or Great Dane. The term giant is only meant for comparing them with their cousins, the Standard and Miniature Schnauzers.
Both male and female Giant Schnauzers have different heights and weights. For males, the height is 25.5-27.5 inches with a weight between 60-85 lbs. For females, the height is 23.5-25.5 inches with a weight between 55-75lbs.
Generally, they have a long tail and small, high ears. In some regions, they have a docked tail and cropped ears.
This dog breed has a dense coat to protect them from weather and vermin.
They have distinct eyebrows and a beard.
They come in two different colors, which are solid black, and salt-and-pepper.
Nutrition
It is recommended to provide feed formulated to large-sized breeds. It is highly recommended to discuss your dog’s feed with your veterinarian and/or breeder in order to determine the size and frequency of meals in order to ensure a healthy, long life. It is also important to ensure that clean, fresh water is always available.
Grooming
Although the Giant Schnauzers do not shed that often, they still require regular brushing. Moreover, their coat must be clipped or stripped as it tends to grow quickly.
Exercise
40-60 minutes of daily exercise is recommended for the Giant Schnauzer. You can channel their high energy into plenty of exercises like running, playing fetch, or other dog sports. Since this breed has such a high energy level, you must provide them with a lot of daily exercise. You can enjoy a long walk or jog with them every day. Alternatively, you can train them with various dog sports.
Pet Crate Size
Pet Crates Direct recommends a 48" dog crate* for most adult Giant Schnauzers.
Return to the main Dog Crate Sizes Breed Chart.
* Links for crate sizes will bring you to the most appropriate Amazon page.